The Dutchman admits he has struggled to adapt to the intensity of the Premier League, but has this week been studying a dossier on the Reds prepared for him by No.2 Ryan Giggs.

"The big difference between the leagues and where I have worked before is the high rhythm of the game.

"I think also every club has a player who can decide the match, and it's not like that so much in Germany or in Spain."

“I have to beat Liverpool as a manager of Manchester United”

Louis van Gaal

In-form striker Robin van Persie has warned Rodgers's men he is back to his best and feeling stronger than ever.

Van Persie has scored three goals in his last three games following a poor start to the campaign and he said: "It was a hard start to this season. I don't know what is to blame for that.

"It's hard to maybe pick things up straight after the World Cup. Somehow it can be tough to really get back to your best form.

"I think everything starts with how you feel physically, because when you're feeling fit and healthy then you can do more.

"Over the past couple of weeks I've been feeling very well physically. I feel good and I don't think it's a coincidence that the goals are flowing in much better now."

Van Gaal, meanwhile, who will be without injured Argentine star Angel Di Maria tomorrow, has taken a swipe at neighbours Manchester City following the recent opening of their £200m, state-of-the-art training campus.

The United boss insists fancy facilities guarantee nothing and he said: "The building and accommodation is not so important.

"The philosophy and staff are - and then of course you have to work with the talents.

"I don't have time to compare talents and staff with each other, but when I see what we have I know I am very happy."